PARIS — French Prime Minister Michel Barnier is set to announce Monday that he will not submit his social security budget to a vote, media reported — opening the door for opposition parties to attempt to topple his government, probably on Wednesday.
Under the French constitution, the government can pass legislation without parliamentary approval. However, lawmakers can challenge this through a motion of no confidence, which, if successful, rejects the legislation and forces the government’s resignation.
A motion of no confidence will likely happen on Wednesday which means Barnier could be toppled before the end of the week. The government would then serve in a caretaker capacity until a new administration is appointed.